It’s time to turn your morning hustle into a happy dance. Between finding matching socks, packing lunches, and convincing your little one that yes, they do need to brush their teeth, school mornings can feel like a routine without any rhythm.
Luckily, there’s a playlist for that! And it’ll turn your AM from hectic to harmonious with the press of a play button. Our LS team put together the *best* back to school playlist for kids filled with upbeat, motivational songs that'll have your whole family singing their way to school. We may have even included some fave songs from mamas in our LS community, too!
Ready to make this year rock? Listen to our Back to School Playlist here! (Warning: impromptu dance parties in the kitchen may break out).
The Best Wake Up Songs & First Day Favorites
Song: Paradise by George Ezra
Recommended by: Rebecca L., Operations
“It’s a fun, upbeat song about being in love. Plus, it's easy to sing along to, and George Ezra's voice is 100!”
Song: Can You Canoe by The Okee Dokee Brothers
Recommended by: Anna H., Operations
“When my kids were little, The Okee Dokee Brothers were always on repeat — in the car, at home, everywhere! Their adventure albums are amazing, but 'Can You Canoe' is a family favorite.”
Song: Don’t Worry, Be Happy by Bobby McFerrin
Recommended by: Reena S., Human Resources
“My first grade teacher always played 'Don't Worry, Be Happy' before every spelling test."
Song: We’re All in This Together by High School Musical
Recommended by: Lindsay M., VP Brand Marketing
“After college I nannied for an Italian family and the little girl LOVED High School Musical, so this became our soundtrack on the way to school.”
Song: Let’s Go! by the Laurie Berkner Band & Walking on Sunshine by VeggieTales
Recommended by: Christine T., Growth Marketing
"Our morning soundtrack with Brooklynn includes these two gems — they never fail to get us moving and grooving toward a great day!"
Song: Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go by Wham!
Recommended by: Janae S.
“Back in high school, we used to call and leave this song on our friends’ pager voicemails as a joke (yes, I said pager, and yes, I know that dates me). I dare you to listen without getting it stuck in your head!”
Song: We’re Going to Be Friends by Jack Johnson
Recommended by: Peri W., Growth Marketing
"This album is very sweet, and special to me because we listened to it a lot when my youngest brother was a baby!”
Song: Fifteen (Taylor's Version) by Taylor Swift
Recommended by: Claudia S., Brand Marketing
“A sweet reminder that every new beginning brings its own magic — perfect for those first-day-of-school feels!”
Song: Arthur’s Theme (Best You Can Do)
Recommended by: Kristen D., Merchandising
“Definitely a throwback song! In elementary school, I was sooo excited to get home from school to watch Arthur, my fave show!”
Song: ABC by The Jackson 5, Summer Nights by Grease & Do-Re-Mi by The Sound of Music
Recommended by: Karli K., Brand Marketing
“I’ve gotta go with this Jackson 5 classic! Also, growing up I was obsessed with the Grease soundtrack — I’d play it before school and then watch the movie when I got home. Right now, my nieces are all about ‘Do-Re-Mi’ from The Sound of Music!”
As your little loves gear up for another school year, these songs will be their musical classmates, ready to energize, motivate, and add joy to every morning routine! They may even inspire a family carpool karaoke session.
Drop your go-to back to school song in the comments below. We’ll add our faves to the playlist, and as always, you’ll be entered for a chance to win a $50 Little Sleepies gift card!
